vi, 314 pages : 24 cm

This unique volume presents a developmental view of the flower and its organs in contrast with more traditional treatments of phylogeny and comparative morphology. Individual chapters on the perianth, androecium, and gynoecium explore the flower's four organ types from the perspectives oforgan initiation from the floral meristem, and organ growth, differentiation, maturation and function. The many illustrations highlight potential candidates as "model systems." Also explored are the developmental aspects of inflorescences and the flowers of grasses, highlighting flower andinflorescence development in Zea, Triticum, Orqza, and Lolium. The book concludes with a discussion of the partial processes and components of flower development which might be considered as sources of morphogenetic and developmental control. In addition to the critical genetic components, theroles of plant growth substances, organelles, and microtubules and microfibrilar components of wall placement are reviewed. The author persuasively argues that flower development is best interpreted as a multidimensional, interactive process in which many potential points for control of individualminor reactions can be identified. This book is a must for researchers and students in botany, plant molecular biology, and plant physiology. Annotation Published: September 2013

Plant development is generally regarded as a strictly descriptive study of the anatomy/morphology of a selected plant organ. Recently, a new synthesis has emerged that attempts to integrate genetics, physiology, and embryology. Greyson presents this more realistic view of plant development, and begins with an outline of the contents of the book. Chapters describe the more realistic development view of the angiosperm flower and its lifecycle, photoperiodic induction, and evocation and floral initiation, all written by Carl N. McDaniel. The next three chapters present what is known about the development of the dicot perianth, androecium, and gynoecium. A chapter on the development of monocot (grass) flower and inflorescences follows. A final chapter brings the divergent research data together, with suggestions for the most profitable areas for future investigation. A well-written book that draws information from many very divergent publications, and an excellent first book in this still-developing area. Upper-division undergraduate through professional. J. Dawson; Pittsburg State University--Choice Reviews

Includes bibliographical references (pages 267-307) and index

Abbreviations -- 1. A developmental point of view -- 2. The angiosperm flower and life cycle -- 3. Photoperiodic induction, evocation and floral initiation / by Carl N. McDaniel -- 4. The Perianth -- 5. The Androecium -- 6. The Gynoecium -- 7. Inflorescences -- 8. Flowers and inflorescences of grasses -- 9. Flower organogenesis: Summary and prospect -- Glossary -- Appendix 1: Culture protocols for rearing research plants -- Appendix 2: Sources of information about genetic stocks of model species for flower studies -- References -- Index

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